Question

Glucocorticoids have been implicated in stress-related weight gain because: (A) they increase appetite and decrease satiety signals. (B) they increase the activity of catabolic hormones. (C) they increase glucose levels, which causes insulin secretion. (D) they interfere with activity of the leptin receptor.

Short answer

Option A: They increase appetite and decrease satiety signals.

Step-by-step solution

- Understand the Role of Glucocorticoids

Glucocorticoids are a class of corticosteroids, which are a class of steroid hormones. They are involved in the metabolism of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats and have anti-inflammatory properties.

- Analyze Each Option

Evaluate each of the given options in relation to the role of glucocorticoids.

Option A - Appetite and Satiety Signals

Glucocorticoids are known to increase appetite and can decrease satiety signals. This can lead to increased food intake and potential weight gain.

Option B - Catabolic Hormones

Catabolic hormones break down molecules to release energy. Glucocorticoids do not primarily increase the activity of these hormones in the context of stress-related weight gain.

Option C - Glucose Levels and Insulin Secretion

Glucocorticoids can increase glucose levels, which can lead to insulin secretion. However, this is not directly linked to stress-related weight gain through increased appetite and decreased satiety.

Option D - Leptin Receptor Activity

While leptin receptors are involved in satiety and energy balance, glucocorticoids primarily affect weight gain by influencing appetite and satiety signals rather than directly interfering with leptin receptor activity.

- Select the Best Answer

The best explanation for stress-related weight gain due to glucocorticoids is that they increase appetite and decrease satiety signals.

Key concepts

Glucocorticoid Function

Glucocorticoids belong to a group of corticosteroids, which are steroid hormones made in the adrenal cortex.
They play a vital role in metabolism, helping to manage how the body uses carbohydrates, proteins, and fats.
They also hold anti-inflammatory properties, which means they reduce inflammation and suppress the immune system.
These hormones, such as cortisol, are released in response to stress and act as part of the body's defense system.
This release can impact various body functions, including key metabolic processes.

Appetite Regulation

Appetite regulation involves a complex interplay of hormones and brain signals that control food intake.
Glucocorticoids can influence appetite by increasing hunger signals.
High levels of stress often lead to an increased release of glucocorticoids, like cortisol, which can make you feel hungry even when your body doesn't need more energy.
This is one reason why people may turn to comfort foods during stressful times, as their brain interprets the need for more food.
If not managed, this can lead to overeating and weight gain.

Satiety Signals

Satiety is the feeling of fullness that tells you to stop eating.
It involves various hormones, including leptin, that signal to your brain that you have had enough food.
Glucocorticoids can reduce the effectiveness of these satiety signals, making it harder for your brain to realize when you're full.
This can lead to continued eating despite having consumed enough calories, contributing to weight gain.
The disruption of these signals is a critical aspect of how stress-related weight gain occurs.

Stress and Metabolism

Stress significantly impacts metabolism and can lead to changes in weight.
When you are stressed, your body goes into a fight-or-flight mode, releasing more glucocorticoids to cope with the stressor.
These hormones not only increase appetite but also push the body to store more fat, particularly in the abdominal area.
This is a double-edged sword because the increased appetite leads to more food intake, and the body's tendency to store fat under stress can accelerate weight gain.
Effective stress management is crucial to maintaining a healthy metabolism and preventing weight-related issues.